Instead of featuring a display screen, the console connects to a television via HDMI. Users can play using a DualShock 3 controller (with a later patch to provide functionality with DualShock 4 controllers),[8] although due to the difference in features between the controller and the handheld, certain games are not compatible with PS Vita TV, such as those that are dependent on the system's touchscreen, rear touchpad, microphone or camera.[1] The device is said to be compatible with over 100 Vita games,[9] as well as various digital PlayStation Portable, PlayStation and PC Engine titles.

According to Muneki Shimada, Sony Director of the Second Division of Software Development, the original PCH-1000 series PlayStation Vita already includes an upscaler that supports up to 1080i resolution, however it was decided that the idea for video output for the original Vita was to be scrapped in favor for releasing the PlayStation Vita TV as a separate device for television connectivity.[10] The in-built scaler has been removed from the PCH-2000 series PlayStation Vita model.[11]

The system will support Remote Play compatibility with the PlayStation 4, allowing players to stream games from the PlayStation 4 to a separate TV connected to PS Vita TV, and will also allow users to stream content from video services such as Hulu and Niconico, as well as access the PlayStation Store.

The device will include the software features of the Vita, such as the Web browser and email client.[12]

The console measures 6 cm by 10 cm, about the size of a pack of playing cards.[13]

In the future, the PlayStation Vita TV can potentially play PlayStation 3 games via cloud-based streaming, according to Sony Computer Entertainment CEO Andrew House.